Gideon Lincecum (1793-1874): Mississippi Pioneer and Man of Many Talents Lesson Plan

OVERVIEW

In every period of history there exist extraordinary citizens that make everlasting contributions to their society. Gideon Lincecum is one such individual. Through his writings we can gain much insight into the experiences of settlers during the early period of Mississippi’s statehood. His works are an invaluable source of reference for grasping an understanding of how social and cultural changes effected Mississippians of his era.

CURRICULAR CONNECTIONS

Mississippi Studies Framework: Competencies 1, 2, and 3.

TEACHING LEVELS

Grades 7 through 12.

MATERIALS AND EQUIPMENT

• Mississippi History Now article
• Notebook paper and pencil or pen
• Whiteboard and marker
• Unlined paper or poster board
• Markers and colored pencils

OBJECTIVES

The students will:

• analyze the life of Mississippi pioneer Gideon Lincecum.
• compose a nomination letter for Gideon Lincecum.
• illustrate the accomplishments of Gideon Lincecum.

OPENING THE LESSON

The teacher will ask the students to consider the establishment of a Mississippi History Hall of Fame that recognizes the significant and extraordinary accomplishments of citizens that have had an effect upon our state’s heritage. The teacher will ask the students: what type of characteristics should inductees possess? What type of contributions should be considered for induction into such a distinguished organization? Student responses can be recorded on the board. The teacher will explain to the students that they will have an opportunity today in class to learn about an extraordinary man named Gideon Lincecum.

DEVELOPING THE LESSON

1. Explain to the students that they have been given the task of writing a nomination letter for Gideon Lincecum. It has been suggested that he would be an excellent choice for induction into the Mississippi History Hall of Fame. Students should work with a partner for this portion of the lesson.
2. As students read the Mississippi History NOW article, they should make a list of accomplishments and key events in the life of Gideon Lincecum. Students should use this list in order to write their nomination letters for Gideon Lincecum.
3. Allow students to continue working with their assigned partner in order to write the nomination letter in support of Gideon Lincecum’s induction into the Mississippi History Hall of Fame. In the nomination letters, students should clearly state their position of support for Gideon Lincecum’s selection.
4. Allow students to create a poster that will be released to commemorate Gideon Lincecum’s induction into the Mississippi History Hall of Fame.
5. Allow the students to share their nomination letters and posters with the class.

CLOSING THE LESSON

The teacher will ask for student volunteers to share the leadership characteristics they felt that Gideon Lincecum possessed and give examples from his life to support their suggestions.

ASSESSING STUDENT LEARNING

1. Class participation
2. Letters
3. Posters

EXTENDING THE LESSON

1. Research the founding of the city of Columbus.
2. Research the medical practices popular during the time that Gideon Lincecum practiced as well as practices common among the Choctaw and Chickasaw Indians.
3. Research the everyday life of Mississippi pioneers.